Attraction: Algonquin Trail

This trail lies within the Castle Creek Wilderness and offers panoramic views of the area. The name was acquired from the Algonquin mine established in the early 1900s near Hell's Hole. The trail passes the min location. The trail is located in the southern end of the Bradshaw Mountains, so-named for an early area miner. This mountain range is walled by dark metamorphic rock, over 1.8 billion years old, intruded by younger igneous granites (tan in color). These igneous granites have eroded into the huge boulders typical of the area.

From the south trailhead at 6800 feet, the trail begins a gradual descent. At mile .75, there is a campsite ideal for about 8 people and 4 horses. The trail from there continues downhill through ponderosa pine, soon changing to chaparral. two abandoned cabins can be seen from the trail; just beyond them is a campsite suitable for 4-5 persons and two horses. The trail from here to Algonquin mine is not maintained and hikers need to be particularly cautious. TR #225 intersects TR #30 in Horsethief Canyon where there is a seasonal stream. The Algonquin mine, at 4600 feet, is just a half of a mile from here. The trail then continues within the canyon for another half mile past the headwaters of Poland Creek. It then begins the final ascent for two and a half miles to the north trailhead on FR 259 up a steep switchback grade. This portion of the trail was originally used to haul ore on pack animals. As you approach the north trailhead, the broad vistas of Verde Valley to the northeast and Pine Mountain to the east come into view.

Directions: From Phoenix, Exit at the Bumble Bee Interchange. Take the dirt road north to Bumblebee and then continue on FR 259 to Crown King. See the Prescott directions for the rest of the route.